Disposable Cartridge for an Electrolytic Cell

ABSTRACT

Illustrative embodiments of the present invention are directed to a cartridge for use with an electrolytic cell having an interface. The cartridge includes a reservoir for containing a catholyte solution. The reservoir is removably coupleable with the cell. The cartridge also includes at least one cartridge port that is removably coupleable to an interface on the electrolytic cell. The port of the cartridge is also configured to cycle a catholyte solution between the reservoir and the electrolytic cell when the cartridge port is coupled to the interface of the electrolytic cell.

PRIORITY

The present application claims the benefit of U.S. Application Ser. No.61/173,411, filed Apr. 28, 2009, which application is incorporatedherein, in its entirety, by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to electrolytic cells, and moreparticularly, to electrolytic cells having catholyte reservoirs.

BACKGROUND ART

Electrolytic cells may be used for the production of various chemistries(e.g., compounds and elements). One application of electrolytic cells isthe production of ozone. Ozone is an effective killer of pathogens andbacteria and is known to be an effective disinfectant. The Food and DrugAdministration (FDA) approved the use of ozone as a sanitizer for foodcontact surfaces and for direct application to food products.Accordingly, electrolytic cells have been used to generate ozone anddissolve ozone directly into source water, thereby removing pathogensand bacteria from the water. As a result, electrolytic cells have foundapplication in purifying bottled water products and industrial watersupplies.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Illustrative embodiments of the present invention are directed to acartridge for use with an electrolytic cell having an interface. Thecartridge includes a reservoir for containing a catholyte solution. Thereservoir is removably coupleable with the cell. The cartridge alsoincludes at least one cartridge port that is removably coupleable to aninterface on the electrolytic cell. The port of the cartridge is alsoconfigured to cycle a catholyte solution between the reservoir and theelectrolytic cell when the cartridge port is coupled to the interface ofthe electrolytic cell.

In another illustrative embodiment of the cartridge, the cartridge isfor use with an electrolytic cell that has an anode and a housing. Thecartridge includes a cathode and a reservoir for containing a catholytesolution. The reservoir is configured to provide the catholyte solutionto the cathode when the cell is in use and when the reservoir containsthe catholyte solution. The cartridge also has a port that is removablycoupleable to an interface of the housing of the electrolytic cell.Furthermore, the cathode is spaced from the anode of the electrolyticcell when coupled to the interface of the housing.

Various embodiments of the cartridge may also include a cartridge outletport for allowing passage of the catholyte solution from the reservoirand a cartridge inlet port for allowing passage of the catholytesolution to the reservoir. Some embodiments may also include at leastone valve to prevent the escape of catholyte solution when the cartridgeport is decoupled from the interface of the electrolytic cell.

Illustrative embodiments of the present invention are also directed toan apparatus for generating ozone and dissolving ozone into a watersource. The apparatus includes a housing forming an interior and anelectrolytic cell within the interior. The cell has a cathode, a diamondanode, and a membrane between the cathode and the diamond anode. Theapparatus also includes a cartridge that has a reservoir for receiving acatholyte solution. The reservoir is removably coupleable to theelectrolytic cell. The cartridge also includes at least one cartridgeport in fluid communication with the reservoir. The housing has aninterface for removably coupling with the at least one cartridge port.The cartridge port and interface are further configured to cycle acatholyte solution between the reservoir and the cathode.

In exemplary embodiments of the apparatus, the cartridge port includes acartridge outlet port for allowing the passage of the catholyte solutionfrom the reservoir and a cartridge inlet port for allowing the passageof the catholyte solution to the reservoir. The apparatus may alsoinclude corresponding structures on the interface. For example, theinterface may include a cathode inlet port for fluid communication withthe cartridge outlet port and to allow passage of the catholyte solutionfrom the reservoir to the cathode. Also, the interface may include acathode outlet port for fluid communication with the cartridge inletport and to allow passage of the catholyte solution from the cathode tothe reservoir. In some embodiments, the interface further includes atleast one valve to prevent the escape of catholyte solution when theinterface is decoupled from the cartridge port. Additionally oralternatively, the cartridge port includes at least one valve to preventthe escape of catholyte solution when the cartridge port is decoupledfrom the interface.

In another illustrative embodiment of the apparatus, the apparatusincludes a housing having an anode and a cartridge. The cartridgeincludes a cathode, a reservoir for containing a catholyte solution andfor providing the catholyte solution to the cathode. The cartridge has aport that is removably coupleable to an interface of the housing. Whencoupled to the interface of the housing, the cathode is spaced from theanode of the electrolytic cell.

In other exemplary embodiments, the housing of the apparatus includes ananode inlet port and an anode outlet port such that source water flowsthrough the anode inlet port to contact the anode and then flows throughthe anode outlet port. In various embodiments of the invention, theanode generates ozone from the source water in contact with the anodeand dissolves the ozone in the source water. Additionally or optionally,the apparatus includes at least one valve to prevent the escape ofsource water when the cartridge is decoupled from the interface of thehousing.

In exemplary embodiments of the cartridges and apparatuses describedabove, the cartridge or apparatus includes a membrane that is spacedbetween the cathode and the anode. In some embodiments, the electrolyticcell includes the membrane. In other embodiments, the cartridge includesthe membrane. Furthermore, in exemplary embodiments, the membrane is asolid proton exchange membrane that provides for the exchange of protonsbetween the cathode and the anode.

In other exemplary embodiments of the cartridges and apparatuses, acatholyte solution is contained within the reservoir. In someembodiments, the catholyte solution is in a solid form. For example, thecatholyte solution may be in a pre-mixed powdered form.

In various embodiments of the above described cartridges andapparatuses, the reservoir includes a hydrophobic membrane that containsthe catholyte solution while also allowing the passage of hydrogen gasfrom the reservoir.

In other exemplary embodiments of the cartridges and apparatusesdescribed above, the cartridge or apparatus may include a sensorconfigured to monitor the performance of the electrolytic cell. Thesensor senses, for example, the pH of the catholyte solution,conductivity of the catholyte solution, volume of the catholytesolution, and voltage draw in a power supply of the electrolytic cell.Additionally or alternatively, embodiments of the invention may alsoinclude an indicator for indicating when the cartridge needs to bereplaced.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing features of the invention will be more readily understoodby reference to the following detailed description, taken with referenceto the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of an electrolytic cell andcartridge in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a schematic, exploded view of an electrolytic cell inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a schematic, assembled view of a cartridge in accordance withone embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4. is a schematic, exploded view of a cartridge in accordance withone embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 includes two schematic views of an electrolytic cell andcartridge in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6 is a schematic, assembled view of a cartridge and electrolyticcell in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7 is another schematic, assembled view of a cartridge andelectrolytic cell in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 8A-8E schematically show several embodiments of a removablycoupleable connection in accordance with illustrative embodiments of thepresent invention;

FIG. 9 schematically shows a cartridge and an electrolytic cell inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 10 schematically shows another view of the cartridge of FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 schematically shows another view of the electrolytic cell ofFIG. 9;

FIG. 12 schematically shows a cartridge and an electrolytic cell inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 13 schematically shows another view of the cartridge of FIG. 12;

FIG. 14 schematically shows another view of the electrolytic cell ofFIG. 12;

FIG. 15 schematically shows a cartridge and a base portion in accordancewith one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 16 schematically shows another view of the cartridge of FIG. 15;and

FIG. 17 schematically shows another view of the base portion of FIG. 15.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS

In illustrative embodiments, an electrolytic cell receives its catholytesolution from a removably coupled cartridge. This cartridge may have areservoir for containing the catholyte solution, portions of the cell,such as the cathode, or both the reservoir and portions of the cell.Details of various embodiments are discussed below.

FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of an electrolytic cell 100 inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Theelectrolytic cell 100 has two electrodes: an anode 120 and a cathode 122that is spaced from the anode. To form ozone, a water source is appliedto the anode 120 and a positive electric potential is applied to theanode while a negative electric potential is applied to the cathode 122.On the anode side of the cell 100, the difference in electric potentialbreaks up water molecules into 1) oxygen and 2) hydrogen cations. Theoxygen forms into ozone, which dissolves into the water source. Thehydrogen cations are pulled from the anode side of the cell 100 to thecathode side by the negative electric potential applied to cathode 122.Once on the cathode side of the cell 100, the cations form hydrogenbubbles 123.

During this reaction, it is possible for scale (e.g., calcium carbonate)from the source water to build up or deposit on the anode 120, thecathode 122, or other components of the cell 100. Eventually, if it doesbuild up as noted, the scale impedes the electrochemical reaction withinthe cell 100. Moreover, such deposits within the electrolytic cell 100can shorten useful cell life, or require disassembly and cleaning ofinternal components to restore cell performance and efficient productionof target chemistries, such as ozone.

Accordingly, illustrative embodiments of the present invention flow acatholyte solution 110 along a surface of the cathode 122 to prevent thebuild up of scale on the cathode, thus improving cell efficiency.Without the catholyte solution 110, it is anticipated that theefficiency of the electrolytic cell 100 would decrease.

Any of a variety of catholyte solutions can be used. In illustrativeembodiments of the present invention, a catholyte solution 110 withsodium chloride and citric acid facilitates the movement of cations fromthe anode 120 to the cathode 122. The sodium chloride and citric acidact to “pull” cations through the anode 120, the cathode 122 and ionexchange materials (e.g., a proton exchange membrane) without “clogging”components of the electrolytic cell 100, thereby effectively reducingscale deposits within the cell. Furthermore, citric acid helpsregenerate the ion exchange materials used in water softeners byreacting with metal ions to form citrate complexes. In this way, thecitric acid strips off the metal ions that accumulate on the ionexchange materials of the cell 100.

Illustrative embodiments of the present invention include a reservoir104 (e.g., a tank or a container) that supplies the catholyte solution110 to the cathode 122. To provide a large supply of catholyte solution110 to the electrolytic cell 100, prior art electrolytic cells known bythe inventors imbed the electrolytic cells as portions of larger systemsor treatment facilities. When the catholyte solution 110 is depleted,the old catholyte solution is replaced with a new solution. Theoperation of changing catholyte solution 110 is typically messy andinconvenient. Trained personnel are often required to service suchsystems to ensure proper replacement and mitigate the mess. Often,redundant elements (e.g., electrolyte tanks and/or piping) are deployedin parallel so that the supply of catholyte solution 110 can be switchedto another supply while the first supply is serviced. In other cases,the cathode 122 may be fed by plumbing some of the source water to thecathode. Undesirably, this prior art strategy can decrease theefficiency of the cell 100 because the source water may containimpurities that deposit and/or build up on the surface of the cathode.The inventors discovered that many of these problems could be avoided byusing an easily replaceable cartridge 102 containing the catholytesolution 110. The inventors realized the use of illustrative embodimentsof such a cartridge 102 1) reduced the complexity of the electrolyticcell 100, 2) typically maintained the useful life of the electrolyticcell, and 3) made the replacement of catholyte solution 110 moreuser-friendly.

Illustrative embodiments of the present invention thus avoid orsignificantly lengthen the useful life of electrolytic cells 100 andavoid service calls, cell exchanges, and/or other events that wouldrequire intervention from trained personnel. Illustrative embodiments ofthe present invention use simple and easy to change cartridges 102 thathelp prevent the deposit of scale and other impurities by collecting andremoving the bulk of these impurities from the cathode 122.

As explained above, illustrative embodiments of the electrolytic cell100 include an anode 120 and a cathode 122 to facilitate the formationof ozone. This electrolytic cell 100 is contained in the interior of ahousing 118 (see FIG. 2) having an interface 119 (see FIG. 5) forremovably coupling with the cartridge 102. The cartridge 102 includesthe reservoir 104, which has walls 106 that define an interior 108(e.g., recess) for containing the catholyte solution 100. To exchangefluids with the cell 100, the cartridge 102 includes an inlet port 112and an outlet port 114 that are in fluid communication with the interior108 of the reservoir 104. The interface 119 on the housing 118 thusremovably couples with the cartridge ports 112, 114 such that the portsand interface fluidly communicate the cathode 122 with the reservoir 104(see FIG. 5).

The anode 120 is spaced from the cathode 122 in the electrolytic cell100. To facilitate the movement of protons (e.g., hydrogen cations) fromthe anode 120 to the cathode 122, in some embodiments, a solid membraneis used as an electrolyte and placed between the anode 120 and cathode122 (e.g., a proton exchange membrane (PEM), such as Nafion®).Additionally, in some cases, the membrane 136 is used as a barrier toseparate the catholyte solution 110 in the cathode 122 from source waterflowing in the anode 120. To provide structural integrity to themembrane 136, the membrane may also include a supporting matrix (notshown).

In some embodiments, the anode 120 includes a diamond or a diamond layerthat has been deposited by, for example, a chemical vapour depositionprocess. The diamond layer enables the formation of ozone in the sourcewater supply. In some cases, the diamond is doped with boron, whichfurther enhances the ozone forming properties of the diamond. Thecathode 122 correspondingly includes a conductive material such astitanium. The negative electric potential applied to the conductivetitanium cathode 122 pulls the hydrogen cations from the anode side ofthe electrolytic cell 102 towards the cathode side. In some embodiments,the conductive material may be platinum plated to increase itsresistance to corrosion. The cathode 122 may also be formed from anexpanded metal mesh that creates small passageways and/or pores throughwhich the catholyte solution 110 and reaction by-products may pass. Theexpanded metal mesh allows for intimate contact between the cathode 122,the catholyte solution 110, and the membrane 136.

The housing 118 or the anode 120 itself includes an anode inlet port 124and an anode outlet port 126. Piping 128 provides source water to theanode 120 such that the water flows through the anode inlet port 124 tocontact the anode 120 (e.g., the diamond layer), and then flows throughthe anode outlet port 126. As the source water flows past the anode 120,water molecules are broken apart and hydrogen cations are pulled towardsthe anode 120 while ozone is created from the remaining oxygen. Theozone dissolves directly into the water and starts to kill off bacteriaand pathogens, thereby purifying the water. The treated water then flowsfrom the anode 120 through anode outlet port 126 and into piping 128 foruse as, for example, drinking water.

The housing 118 and/or the cathode 122 itself includes a cathode inletport 130 and a cathode outlet port 132. The cartridge inlet port 112 isin fluid communication with the cathode outlet port 132 through piping134. In a similar manner, the cartridge outlet port 114 is in fluidcommunication with the cathode inlet port 130 through piping 134. Insuch an arrangement, catholyte solution 110 flows from the reservoir104, through the cartridge outlet port 114, and into the piping 134.Then, the catholyte solution 110 flows through the cathode inlet port130 to contact the cathode 122. In this manner, fresh catholyte solution110 is supplied to the cathode 122.

As the catholyte solution 110 flows past the cathode 122, it collectsthe hydrogen bubbles 123 produced by the electrolytic reaction. Asexplained above, the inventors believe that the catholyte solution 110also helps “pull” cations through the membrane 136 and may prevent buildup of scale on the cathode 122. The depleted (or partially depleted)catholyte solution 110 then exits the cathode 122 through the cathodeoutlet port 132, flows through the piping 132 and the cartridge inletport 112, and into the catholyte reservoir 104. In this way, the ports112, 130, 122, 132 are configured to cycle fresh catholyte solution 110from the reservoir 104 to the cathode 122, and depleted catholyte 110back from the cathode to the reservoir.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 3, the cartridge outlet port 114is located below the cartridge inlet port 112 so that the force ofgravity can help cycle catholyte solution 110 from the reservoir 104into the cathode 122, and then back to the container. Furthermore, thecathode outlet port 132 may be placed vertically above the cathode inletport 130, and the cartridge inlet port 112 may be located above thecathode outlet port so that the buoyant hydrogen bubbles 123 that areproduced from the electrolytic reaction naturally rise through thecathode outlet port 132 and into the reservoir 104. In this manner, thegeneration of buoyant hydrogen bubbles 123 drives the flow of depletedcatholyte 110 solution into the reservoir 104 and, in turn, freshcatholyte solution flows under the force of gravity from the reservoir104 into the cathode. Whereas, if the cathode 122 were deployedhorizontally, rather than vertically, bubbles 123 would exit from bothports 130, 132 and fresh catholyte solution would not reach the cathode122 as efficiently, thereby hindering the generation of ozone.Additionally or alternatively, a pump may be used to flow depletedcatholyte solution from the cathode 122 to the reservoir 104, and tohelp fresh catholyte solution flow from the reservoir towards thecathode.

As the catholyte solution 110 and the gas bubbles 123 flow into thereservoir 104, the bubbles collects at the top of the reservoir. To ventthose bubbles 123 from the reservoir 104, some embodiments include avent 116 in the cartridge. The vent 116 may employ a hydrophobicmaterial as the vent media, but other materials may also be used. Theinventors have discovered several factors to be considered in selectinga vent media:

-   Pore size of the vent media-   Surface area of the vent media-   Wettability of the vent media-   Gas flow rate of the hydrogen gas through the vent media-   Maximum fluid pressure (e.g., force of the catholyte solution 110 on    the vent media)    For example, to prevent the vent 116 from leaking catholyte solution    110, it may be advantageous to decrease the pore size of the vent    media. This approach, however, may decrease the gas flow rate    through the vent 116. If the gas does not vent properly from the    reservoir 104, the reservoir and/or the cathode 122 may fill with    gas, thereby hindering the production of ozone. Nonetheless, the    inventors have discovered that by using a vent 116 with a greater    surface area, one may still be able to provide an acceptable gas    flow rate and thus, avoid hindering the production of ozone.

Furthermore, exemplary embodiments of the present invention prevent thedeposition of impurities (e.g., calcium carbonate) on the cathode 122 bycollecting them in the reservoir 104. To that end, in some embodiments,the reservoir 104 includes a sump construction wherein a ridge orprotrusion rises above the cartridge outlet port 114 so that theimpurities in the depleted catholyte solution 110 settle under the forceof gravity around the port, and are not swept back towards the cathode122. Alternatively or additionally, the cartridge outlet port 114 mayinclude a screen or filter so that the impurities do not flow through itand back towards the cathode 122.

The cyclical flow of catholyte solution 110 continues until thecatholyte solution 110 is consumed (i.e., some or all of its solutes aredepleted). Once depleted, the catholyte solution 110 is replaced with anew supply of catholyte solution. Illustrative embodiments of thepresent invention facilitate the exchange of catholyte solution 110 bysimply interchanging the cartridge 102 with a new cartridge 102. To thatend, in illustrative embodiments of the invention, the interface 119delivers a removably coupleable connection for quick and easy exchangeof the cartridge 102. The inventors have discovered several factors tobe considered in selecting an interface 119:

-   The fluid resistance through the interface 119.-   Bubble 123 migration through the interface 119.-   Ease of ex-changing the cartridge 102.-   Preventing spillage during an ex-change of the cartridge 102.-   Cost of the interface 119 and cartridge 102 (e.g., use of disposable    materials).-   Reliability of the interface 119 (e.g., the cartridge should remain    properly installed over its useful lifetime).-   Material compatibility between parts in the interface 119, cartridge    102, and/or cell 100.    If the fluid resistance through the interface 119 is too great,    there may be insufficient flow of catholyte solution 110 to the    cathode 122. Undesirably, this insufficient flow may decrease the    production of ozone in the electrolytic cell 100. Also, if the    interface 119 constricts the flow of hydrogen gas out of the cathode    122 and into the cartridge 102 (e.g., it has obstructions or    dimensions that are too small), hydrogen gas may build up in the    cathode and exit through both cathode ports 130, 132 of the cell    100. This would prevent the cyclical flow of fresh catholyte    solution 110 into the cathode 122, consequently hindering ozone    production. Illustrative embodiments of the present invention avoid    such issues. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 5, 6, and 7, which is    one of many ways to solve this problem, the interface 119 includes    two right angle elbows 121 through which fluid flows between the    cartridge 102 and the cell 100. The cathode inlet 130 and outlet    ports 132 are positioned at the end of the elbows and are in fluid    communication with the cartridge outlet 114 and inlet ports 112,    respectively. The interface 119 permits the flow of catholyte    solution 110 from the cathode 122 to the cartridge 102. The    exemplary embodiments shown in FIGS. 5, 6, and 7 also allow hydrogen    gas bubbles 123 to rise with gravity and flow out of the cathode    122.

Furthermore, as noted, the exemplary embodiment of the cartridge 102shown in FIG. 5 is easy to install onto the electrolytic cell 100.Toward this end, the cartridge 102 may be installed by aligning cathodeports 130, 132 with cartridge ports 112, 114 and then applying a smalldownward force on the cartridge 102. Also, exemplary embodiments of thecartridge 102 are removably coupleable with electrolytic cell 100 and,therefore, are easily removable and exchangeable with another cartridge.

The term “removably coupleable” should be considered in the context ofthe ozone generation art. For example, one skilled in the art would notconsider a cartridge to be “removably coupled” to the housing if itnormally must be cut, forcibly broken from the housing, or if itrequired specialized training-beyond the minimal, “lay-person” trainingrequired for the cartridges described herein. Thus, a cartridge thatrequires significantly less time and complexity to replace, whencompared to prior art ozone cartridges known by the inventors, should beconsidered “removably coupleable.” Below is a summary of some possibleremovable connections that should provide the desired results.

FIG. 8A shows an illustrative embodiment of one type of removablycoupleable connection. In such an embodiment, the interface 119 includesa male connector 802 with an o-ring groove 804 on the outer diameter ofthe connector. An o-ring 806 disposed within the groove 804 forms araised surface onto which a female connector 808 from one of thecartridge ports 112 and 114 is forced (e.g., interference fit). Thefemale connector 808 may include a matching inner diameter o-ring groove810. Thus, as the female connector 808 is forced over the o-ring 806, it“snaps” into place once the o-ring groove 810 slides over the maleo-ring 806. Such “push to lock” connector elements may provide a tactileindication that the cartridge is properly installed. In other words, theuser applies a force and “feels” and/or “hears” as the cartridge 102properly snaps into place.

FIG. 8B shows another illustrative embodiment of a removably coupleableconnection. In this embodiment, the o-ring 806 is not used. Instead, theo-ring is replaced with an integral contoured protrusion 812 extendingfrom the outer diameter of the male connector 802 (e.g., an outer rib).The groove 810 in the female connector locks into place on the integralcontoured protrusion 812. The integral protrusion 812 may be located onthe outer diameter of the male connector 802 or on the inner diameter ofthe female connector 808 (e.g., an inner rib).

In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 8C, the female connector 808does not include a groove. Instead, the female connector 808 is aductile tube that is placed over an outer rib 812 of the male connector802. In an alternative embodiment, the male connector 802 constitutesthe ductile tube and is forced into an inner rib of the female connector808. The interference fit between the rib 812 and the ductile tube holdsthe cartridge 102 in place and seals the fluid connection between thecartridge 102 and the cell 100. A sufficient separating force betweenthe cell 100 and the cartridge 102 would decouple the cathode ports 130,132 from the cartridge ports 112, 114.

FIG. 8D shows yet another embodiment of a removably coupleableconnection. In the embodiment shown, the interface 119 of the cell 100may include at least one barb 814 onto which a ductile tube 816 (e.g.,hose) from one of the cartridge ports 112 and 114 is forced. Orvice-versa, the cartridge ports 112 and 114 may include barbs onto whichflexible tubes from the interface 119 are forced.

In another exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 8E, the interface 119 ofthe cell 100 may include a male threaded connection 818 and theconnection from the cartridge ports 112 and 114 may includecorresponding female thread 820, or vice versa. Also, in the embodimentshown in FIG. 8E, the female connector 808 includes a swivel 822 so thata user can more easily secure the female thread 820 onto the male thread818.

It should be emphasized that the examples shown in FIGS. 8A-8E are notintended to be an exhaustive list of all removable connections. Thoseskilled in the art thus could use any number of other removablycoupleable connections.

Illustrative embodiments of the present invention also aim to providefor quick and easy exchange of catholyte solution 110 without spillingcatholyte solution from the cartridge 102 and/or cathode 122. To containthe catholyte solution 110 in the reservoir 104 during the exchange, thecartridge 102 includes valves 138 (e.g., check valves and/or normallyclosed valves) to seal off the cartridge inlet port 112 and outlet port114 (see FIGS. 3 and 4). Additionally or alternatively, the interface119 on the housing 118 may include one or more valves 139 to seal offthe cathode inlet 130 and/or outlet ports 132 of the electrolytic cell100 (see FIGS. 6 and 7). The valves in the cathode inlet 130 and outletports 132 prevent escape of residual fluid in the cathode 122 andsubsequent spillage from the cell 100 when the cartridge 102 is changedor refilled. The valves 138 may be normally closed valves. In otherwords, when connected or engaged, a mechanism, such as a spring, opensthe valve and allows fluid to pass. When not connected or engaged,however, the spring pushes the valve closed to prevent fluid flow.Additionally or alternatively, the valves 138 may be check valves thatallow fluid to flow in only one direction. When the fluid starts to flowin the wrong direction, the valves close and prevent the flow of fluid.Such check valves may be arranged to allow cyclical flow of catholytesolution 110 between the cartridge 102 and the electrolytic cell 100,but prevent a counter flow of catholyte solution.

In FIG. 5, valves 138 are located at cartridge ports 112 and 114 of thecartridge 102. The valves 138 are normally closed valves and thus,include springs that forcibly seal the ports 112, 114 when they aredisconnected from the cell 100. When connected to the cell 100, thesprings are forced back to allow fluid flow between the cartridge 102and the cell 100. The valves 138 help prevent fluid and effluence spillsfrom the cartridge 102 when it is exchanged. With respect to the cathode122 side, when the cartridge 102 is exchanged, some catholyte solution110 remains in the cathode 122. In some embodiments, no valves areprovided on the cathode ports 130, 132 so that the catholyte solution110 drains out of the inlet cathode port 130 under the force of gravity.Yet, in other embodiments, valves 139 (see FIGS. 6 and 7) are providedon the cathode ports 130, 132 to prevent or reduce spillage of catholytesolution 110 from the cathode 122. Furthermore, the interface 119,cartridge 102, and cell 100 can be designed to allow for differentamounts of effluence. For example, in industrial settings, effluence ofa few ounces of fluid from the electrolytic cell 100 may be acceptable,whereas, for consumer applications, effluence of only a few drops may beunacceptable.

In more specific exemplary embodiments, the valves 138 are integral tothe removably coupleable connection of the interface 119 and thecartridge ports 112, 114. In that regard, illustrative embodiments ofthe present invention may use, for example, HFC series quick couplingssupplied by the Colder Products Company™, which facilitate easyreplacement of the cartridge while also preventing spillage.

The above described cell and cartridge arrangement 100, 102 is only anillustrative embodiment of the present invention. Other cell andcartridge arrangements 100, 102 are also within the scope of the presentinvention. For example, piping 134 may be eliminated by directlyinterfacing the cartridge inlet port 112 with the cathode outlet port132 and directly interfacing the cartridge outlet port 114 with thecathode inlet port 130. Thus, catholyte solution 110 would flow directlyfrom the reservoir 104 into the cathode 122, and vice versa. In otherembodiments, there may be only one port between the cathode 122 and thereservoir 104. In such an embodiment, a first portion of the port may bededicated to the flow of catholyte solution 110 from the reservoir 104while a second portion of the port may be dedicated to flow of catholytesolution to the reservoir. In additional or alternative embodiments, thecathode 122 may be disposed within or partially within the reservoir104.

In this regard, FIG. 9 shows an alternative illustrative embodiment ofthe present invention. In this embodiment, no piping 134 is present tocycle the catholyte solution 110 between the cartridge 102 and theelectrolytic cell 100. Instead, the cartridge outlet port 114 isdirectly connected to the cathode inlet port 130 and the cartridge inletport 112 is directly connected to the cathode outlet port 132.Furthermore, the cartridge 102 is located horizontally from theelectrolytic cell 100, not vertically as shown in FIGS. 3, 4, 5, 6, and7. In this horizontal embodiment, the buoyant force of the hydrogenbubbles 123 cycles catholyte solution 110 between the cathode 122 andthe reservoir 104.

FIG. 9 also shows in more detail the configuration of the anode 120, thecathode 122, and the membrane 136 of the electrolytic cell 100. Theelectrolytic cell 100 includes an anode inlet port 124 and an anodeoutlet port 126 so that source water can flow through and contact theanode 120. Although the membrane 136 often can sufficiently prevent bothcatholyte flow to the anode side of the cell 100 and water flow to thecathode side of the cell 100, some embodiments also use a sealing gasket900 (FIG. 9) to prevent fluid flow around the perimeter of the membrane136. FIG. 10 shows a cross-sectional view of the electrolytic cell 100with the sealing gasket 900 providing a barrier to fluids around theperimeter of the membrane 136.

The electrolytic cell 100 of FIG. 9 also includes a current spreader 902that is attached to an electrical lead 904. The current spreader 902 isa sheet or mesh of conductive material (e.g., titanium, copper, oraluminum) that is in electrical contact with the anode 120. Some anodes122, such as boron doped diamonds, have high electrical resistance.Thus, there is a power loss (and efficiency loss) as current from asingular electrical connection travels across the entire area of thediamond. The current spreader 902 limits such a power loss because itallows current from the electrical lead 904 to travel through a lowresistance conductive material before it enters the diamond. FIG. 11shows a cross-sectional view of the anode 120 and the current spreader902. The anode 120 includes two boron doped diamonds having faces thatare in electrical contact with the current spreader 902. In this manner,current is distributed to the entire face of each diamond.

In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 3, 4, and 9, the cartridge 102includes the reservoir 104, and is removably coupled to the electrolyticcell 100. Some embodiments of the cartridge 102, however, have more thana removably coupleable reservoir. For example, FIG. 12 shows anembodiment of a cartridge 102 that includes both a reservoir 104 and acathode 122. The inventors discovered that a cartridge 102 with both thecathode 122 and the catholyte reservoir 104 has several advantages.First, the configuration is advantageous because most of the scale, ifany, forms on the cathode 122—whereas the anode 120 is less susceptibleto scale—and thus, replacement of the cathode 120 may increase theefficiency of the cell 100. Accordingly, when removed, the spentreservoir 104 and corroded cathode 122 are replaced with a scale-freecathode 122 and fresh catholyte reservoir 104. Second, the anode 120typically has a longer useful life than the cathode 122. Therefore,replacing the cathode 122 while preserving the anode 122 better utilizesthe useful life of the anode. Third, some anodes 120 are formed fromexpensive materials such as diamond. As a result, preserving the anode120 within the electrolytic cell 100 may provide further cost reduction.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 12, the cathode 122 defines a portion ofthe reservoir 104 and thereby receives a constant source of freshcatholyte solution 110 from the reservoir. The cartridge 102 alsoincludes a membrane 136 that is adjacent to the cathode 122. FIG. 13provides a cross-sectional view of the cathode 122 and the membrane 136.It is advantageous to include the membrane 136 (e.g., a solid protonexchange membrane) because, during the cartridge exchange, the membrane136 can prevent the outflow of catholyte solution 110 from the cathode122. In some cases, this arrangement eliminates the need for additionalvalves to prevent out-flow of catholyte solution 110. In otherembodiments, however, the cartridge 102 does not include the membrane136. In such embodiments, the membrane 136 may remain affixed to theelectrolytic cell 100 and/or the catholyte solution 110 is containedwithin the reservoir 104 and cathode 122 using valves and/or temporarybarriers, such as adhesive sheets.

The cartridge 102 also includes a port 1200 that is removably coupleableto an interface 1202 on a housing 118 of the electrolytic cell 100. Inthe embodiment of FIG. 12, to secure the cartridge 102 to the cell 100,the port 1200 includes two flanges 1204, 1206 that each have a groove1205, 1207 and the interface 1202 includes two latches 1208, 1210. Thetwo latches 1208, 1210 engage, respectively, the two grooves 1205, 1207of the port 1200. In this manner, the port 1200 and the interface 1202are removably coupleable. To prevent water and catholyte solution 110from leaking between the interface 1202 and port 1200, the electrolyticcell 100 may also include a sealing gasket 1212 that presses against theport 1200 of the cartridge 102 when the cartridge is coupled to theelectrolytic cell 100.

Various other removably coupleable connections are also within the scopeof the present invention. For example, in one specific exemplaryembodiment, the port 1200 of the cartridge 102 and the interface 1202 ofthe electrolytic cell 100 are round. The port 1200 includes a flangearound the perimeter of the port. The inner diameter of the flangeincludes female threads, while the outer diameter of the interface 1202includes male threads. Using such an arrangement, a user can “screw” thecartridge 102 onto the interface 1202 of the electrolytic cell 100.

In various other exemplary embodiments, the removably coupleableconnection uses guides or guide fingers to properly align and/or supportthe cartridge 102 when installed to the electrolytic cell 100. Onceproperly aligned, a locking mechanism firmly secures and removablycouples the cartridge 102 to the electrolytic cell 100. For example, insome cases, the locking mechanism has an interference fit (e.g., pressfit) between the port 1200 and the interface 1202 of the electrolyticcell 100. In other examples, the locking mechanism includes latches,adhesives, screws, snap fittings, and/or bolted assemblies, each ofwhich can be used to firmly secure and removably couple the cartridge102 to the cell 100.

In the embodiment of FIG. 12, to create the necessary electric potentialat the cathode 122, one of the latches 1210 provides an electricalcurrent to the cartridge 102. The cartridge 102 includes an electricallead 1214 that is coupled to the cathode 122 and an electrical contact1216 on the groove 1207. When the cartridge 102 is coupled to theelectrolytic cell 102 and the cell is operating, current is applied tothe latch 1210 and the latch makes contact with the electrical contact1216 in the groove 1207. Current can then flow through the electricallead 1214 to the cathode 122. In this manner, current can be provided tothe cartridge 102 for the cathode 122 and other electrically dependentfunctionalities (e.g., indicators, pumps, displays, or sensors). On theanode side, a current spreader 902 and electrical lead 904 providecurrent to the anode 120. This configuration creates the electricalpotential between the anode 120 and the cathode 122 that is necessaryfor the cell 100 to create ozone.

Illustrative embodiments of the present invention include valves 1216,1218 to prevent spillage of source water when the cartridge 102 isdecoupled from the electrolytic cell 100. The electrolytic cell 100includes an anode inlet port 124 and an anode outlet port 126 so thatsource water can flow through and contact the anode 120. In theembodiment of FIG. 12, the electrolytic cell 100 includes valves 1216,1218 that prevent the flow of source water to and from the anode 120when the cartridge 102 is decoupled. In some embodiments, the valves1216, 1218 are normally closed valves that use stems 1220, 1222 toengage the cartridge 102. When the cartridge 102 is decoupled, springs1224, 1226 force the valves 1216, 1218 closed and prevent the flow ofsource water. When the cartridge 102 is coupled to the electrolytic cell100, however, the cartridge pushes against the valve stems 1220, 1222and thereby opens the valves 1216, 1218 so that source water can flow tothe anode 120. This configuration prevents spillage of source water whenthe cartridge 102 is decoupled, but allows the flow of source water whenthe cartridge is coupled to the cell 100. FIG. 14 provides another viewof the valves 1216, 1218 and their arrangement within the electrolyticcell 100.

FIG. 15 shows yet another embodiment of the present invention whereinthe cartridge 102 includes the reservoir 104 and even more principalcomponents of the electrolytic cell 100 (e.g., the anode 120, cathode122, and the membrane 136). In such an embodiment, the cartridge 102 isconfigured to be removably coupleable to a base portion 1500. The baseportion 1500 includes a source water supply. Additionally, the baseportion 1500 may include other components (e.g., power source, displays,sensors, and indicators). In some embodiments, the base portion 1500 maybe part of a point-of-use application, such as water lines in appliancesand/or cleaning equipment (e.g., washing machines or power washingequipment).

The embodiment shown in FIG. 15 is similar to the embodiment shown inFIG. 12. Thus, much of the description of the embodiment shown in FIG.12 applies equally to embodiment shown in FIG. 15 and, therefore, thatdescription will not be repeated here.

One of the differences between the embodiment of FIG. 12 and theembodiment of FIG. 15 is that the anode 120 is included within thecartridge 102 in the embodiment of FIG. 15. The cartridge 102 alsoincludes a current spreader 1502 for distributing current to the anode120. To provide an electric potential to the anode, a second latch 1208on the base portion 1500 provides current to an electrical contact 1504on the groove 1207 when the latch is engaged with the cartridge 102. Asecond electrical lead 1506 provides current from the second electricalcontact 1504 to the current spreader 1502. In this manner, current isprovided from the base portion 1500 to the anode 120. As explained abovewith respect to FIG. 12, the other latch 1210 provides electricalcurrent to the cathode 122. This configuration creates the necessaryelectrical potential between the anode 120 and the cathode 122. FIG. 16provides another view of the anode 120, the cathode 122, the currentspreader 1502, and the membrane 136 and their arrangement within thecartridge 102.

Additionally, in some embodiments of the present invention, the baseportion 1500 includes a protrusion 1508 or a series of protrusions(e.g., ribs) that support the anode 120 when the cartridge 102 iscoupled to the base portion 1500. The protrusions 1508 allow for sourcewater to flow through them and contact the anode 120. FIG. 17 providesanother view of the protrusions 1508 and their arrangement within thebase portion 1500.

Illustrative embodiments of the cartridge 102 use materials that arecompatible with the catholyte solution 110, ozone, and by-products ofthe electrolytic reaction. For example, a small fraction of ozone orother aggressive chemical may cross the membrane 136 and flow into thereservoir 104 of the cartridge 102. Therefore, in some embodiments, thecartridge 102 should be constructed from materials that will withstandthe corrosive effects of the chemicals (e.g., metals and ceramics). Onthe other hand, the lifetime and disposability of the cartridge 102 mayalso be a factor. The use of cartridge materials that corrode whenexposed to aggressive chemicals (e.g., plastics and polymers) may bemitigated by the cost of less expensive materials and/or if thecartridge is replaced before corrosion becomes a problem. In otherwords, the intended life-span of the cartridge 102 should be consideredwhen selecting materials.

In some embodiments, the reservoir 104 contains a catholyte solution 110that is in liquid form. In other words, the catholyte solution 110includes chemical solutes, such as sodium chloride, potassium chloride,citric acid, acetic acid and/or other mild acids, dissolved in water(e.g., solutes include 8.3% of solution by weight). However,transportation and installation of cartridges 102 containing catholytesolutions 110 in liquid form may be expensive and difficult because ofthe excess weight of the water. Accordingly, in other embodiments of theinvention, the solutes are present in the reservoir 104 in dry form. Apredetermined amount of solute is present in the reservoir 104 toproduce a solution with a predetermined concentration when mixed withwater. Once the cartridge 102 is installed, a user can simply add waterto dissolve the solutes and produce an appropriate catholyte solution110. The water can be added manually by a user or, in other embodiments,the water can be added automatically through a replenishment valve 144(e.g., solenoid valve, see FIG. 1). The replenishment valve 144 may alsobe used to relieve pressure in the electrolytic cell 100 and/or leveloff the amount of catholyte solution 110 in the reservoir 104. In someembodiments, the cartridge 102 can be provided without a solute. In sucha case, a user adds the catholyte solution 110 to the reservoir 104, oradds a premixed powdered solute to the reservoir and then apredetermined amount of water. The water may be added manually orautomatically injected into the reservoir 104 (e.g., via the solenoidvalve). In other embodiments, the solutes may be added in the form of asolid mass (e.g., brick or tablet). The solid mass might beprefabricated with a predetermined dosage of solutes as a single solidbody. A user can add the solid mass into the reservoir 104, avoiding theneed to handle the powder form of the solute or liquid form of thecatholyte solution 110.

In further illustrative embodiments of the present invention, there maybe a plurality of the above-described cartridges 102 supporting (andremovably coupleable) to a single electrolytic cell 100. An arrangementwith multiple cartridges 102 may provide redundancy that allows one ormore cartridges to be changed without cell 100 down time. In otherembodiments, there may be a single cartridge 102 supporting (andremovably coupleable) to a plurality of electrolytic cells 100. Thesingle cartridge 102 might support cells 100 generating various ozoneoutput levels and/or plumbed into different water circulation networks.In yet another embodiment, a single electrolytic cell 100 includes aplurality of different removably coupleable cartridges 102. For example,a first cartridge having a reservoir 104 may be removably coupleable toa second cartridge having a cathode 122. The second cartridge, in turn,is removably coupleable to the electrolytic cell 100. This configurationallows for the reservoir 104 and the cathode 122 to be replaced atdifferent time intervals.

Illustrative embodiments of the present invention may also include anindicator to indicate when the catholyte solution 110 is depleted and/orwhen depletion is imminent. The indicator may be a light or a displaydevice such as an LCD. In some cases, the indicator may automaticallyshut off power to the cell 100 when the catholyte solution 110 isdepleted. The indicator may be triggered by a sensor 140 (or a pluralityof sensors) (see FIG. 1) that monitors the performance of theelectrolytic cell 100 by measuring certain variables such as the pH ofthe catholyte solution 110, the conductivity of the catholyte solution110, and the volume of the catholyte solution in the reservoir 104(e.g., height of the catholyte solution level in the reservoir). The pH,volume, and conductivity sensors 140 may be placed in the reservoir 104of the cartridge 102, or, in other embodiments, the pH and conductivitysensors may be located at the cathode 122. Additionally oralternatively, in some embodiments, the sensor 140 may be a voltmeterthat measures the voltage draw of the electrolytic cell 100. At constantcurrent, as scale builds up on the cathode 122, the voltage draw of theelectrolytic cell 100 increases. When the voltage reaches a certainvalue, an indicator may indicate that it is time to change the catholytesolution 110, the cathode 122, and/or the anode 120. In yet otherembodiments, a sensor 140 measures the amount of ozone produced by thecell 100 and, after a certain amount has been produced, indicates that acartridge 102 change is required or imminent. Some or all of thesevariables may be used in conjunction to determine when replacement ofthe catholyte solution 110 is necessary.

Illustrative embodiments of the present invention may include amicroprocessor 142 to control various cell actions and variables (seeFIG. 1). For example, the microprocessor 142 may be used to monitormeasurements coming from sensors 140 and monitor other parameters ofcell performance, such as source water flow rate, source watertemperature, source water pressure, as well as catholyte solution 110flow rate, catholyte solution pressure, and catholyte solutiontemperature. The microprocessor 142 may perform certain actions based onthose measurements. For example, the microprocessor 142 may open orclose solenoid valve 144 in order to relieve pressure or to add water tofurther dilute the catholyte solution 110. The microprocessor 142 mayalso keep track of total power-on hours and, in the event of variableoutput systems, the history and duty cycle of total power-on hours(e.g., on for 1 hour/week at full power, 2 hours/week at ½ power, etc .. . ). In some embodiments, the microprocessor 142 may be programmedwith an algorithm to predict when cartridge change is required based onprior cell 100 characterization, operating conditions, and/or summingtotal power-on hours.

Although various exemplary embodiments of the invention have beendisclosed, it should be apparent to those skilled in the art thatvarious changes and modifications may be made which will achieve some ofthe advantages of the invention without departing from the true scope ofthe invention.

1. A cartridge for an electrolytic cell having an interface, thecartridge comprising: a reservoir configured to contain a catholytesolution and being removably coupleable with the cell; and at least onecartridge port for removably coupling with the interface of theelectrolytic cell, the port being configured to cycle a catholytesolution between the reservoir and the electrolytic cell when thecartridge port is coupled to the interface of the electrolytic cell. 2.An cartridge according to claim 1, further comprising: a catholytesolution contained within the reservoir.
 3. An cartridge according toclaim 1, wherein the at least one cartridge port comprises: a cartridgeoutlet port configured to allow passage of the catholyte solution fromthe reservoir; and a cartridge inlet port configured to allow passage ofthe catholyte solution to the reservoir.
 4. A cartridge according toclaim 1, wherein the cartridge port further comprises: at least onevalve to prevent the escape of catholyte solution when the cartridgeport is decoupled from the interface.
 5. A cartridge according to claim1, wherein the reservoir includes a hydrophobic membrane that containsthe catholyte solution while providing for the passage of hydrogen gasfrom the reservoir.
 6. A cartridge according to claim 2, wherein thecatholyte solution is in a solid form.
 7. A cartridge according to claim6, wherein the catholyte solution is in a pre-mixed powdered form.
 8. Acartridge according to claim 1, further comprising: an indicator forindicating when the cartridge needs to be replaced.
 9. An apparatus forgenerating ozone and dissolving ozone into a water source, the apparatuscomprising: a housing forming an interior; an electrolytic cell withinthe interior, the cell having a cathode, a diamond anode, and a membranebetween the cathode and the diamond anode; and a cartridge including: areservoir for receiving a catholyte solution and being removablycoupleable with the cell; and at least one cartridge port in fluidcommunication with the reservoir; the housing having an interface forremovably coupling with the at least one cartridge port, the at leastone cartridge port and interface configured to cycle a catholytesolution between the reservoir and the cathode.
 10. An apparatusaccording to claim 9, wherein the at least one cartridge port comprises:a cartridge outlet port configured to allow passage of the catholytesolution from the reservoir; and a cartridge inlet port configured toallow passage of the catholyte solution to the reservoir.
 11. Anapparatus according to claim 10, wherein the interface comprises: acathode inlet port configured to be in fluid communication with thecartridge outlet port and to allow passage of the catholyte solutionfrom the reservoir to the cathode; and a cathode outlet port configuredto be in fluid communication with the cartridge inlet port and to allowpassage of the catholyte solution from the cathode to the reservoir. 12.An apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the interface furthercomprises: at least one valve to prevent the escape of catholytesolution when the interface is decoupled from the cartridge port.
 13. Anapparatus according to claim 9, wherein the cartridge port furthercomprises: at least one valve to prevent the escape of catholytesolution when the cartridge port is decoupled from the interface.
 14. Anapparatus according to claim 9, wherein the reservoir includes ahydrophobic membrane that contains the catholyte solution in thereservoir while providing for the passage of hydrogen gas from thereservoir.
 15. An apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the catholytesolution is contained within the reservoir and is in a solid form. 16.An apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the catholyte solution is ina pre-mixed powdered form.
 17. An apparatus according to claim 9,wherein the housing includes an anode inlet port and an anode outletport such that source water flows through the anode inlet port tocontact the diamond anode and then flows through the anode outlet port.18. An apparatus according to claim 17, wherein the diamond anodegenerates ozone from the source water in contact with the diamond anodeand dissolves the ozone in the source water.
 19. An apparatus accordingto claim 9, wherein the membrane is a solid proton exchange membranethat provides for the exchange of protons between the cathode and theanode.
 20. An apparatus according to claim 9, further comprising: asensor configured to monitor the performance of the electrolytic cell.21. An apparatus according to claim 20, wherein the sensor senses atlease one of pH of the catholyte solution, conductivity of the catholytesolution, volume of the catholyte solution, and voltage draw in a powersupply of the electrolytic cell.
 22. An apparatus according to claim 9,further comprising: an indicator for indicating when the cartridge needsto be replaced.
 23. A cartridge for an electrolytic cell having ananode, the cartridge being used with a housing, the cartridgecomprising: a cathode; and a reservoir for containing a catholytesolution and configured to provide the catholyte solution to the cathodeduring use when the reservoir contains the catholyte solution; thecartridge having a port that is removably coupleable to an interface ofthe housing, the cathode being spaced from the anode of the electrolyticcell when coupled to the interface of the housing.
 24. A cartridgeaccording to claim 23, wherein the reservoir includes a hydrophobicmembrane that contains the catholyte solution while providing for thepassage of hydrogen gas from the reservoir.
 25. A cartridge according toclaim 23, wherein the catholyte solution is contained within thereservoir and is in a solid form.
 26. A cartridge according to claim 25,wherein the catholyte solution is in a pre-mixed powdered form.
 27. Acartridge according to claim 23, further comprising: an indicator forindicating when the cartridge needs to be replaced.
 28. A cartridgeaccording to claim 23, further comprising: a membrane spaced between thecathode of the cartridge and the anode of the electrolytic cell when thecartridge is coupled to the interface of the housing.
 29. A cartridgeaccording to claim 28, wherein the membrane is a solid proton exchangemembrane that provides for the exchange of protons between the cathodeand the anode.
 30. An apparatus for generating ozone and dissolvingozone into a water source, the apparatus comprising: a housing having ananode; and a cartridge including: a cathode; a reservoir for containinga catholyte solution and configured to provide the catholyte solution tothe cathode; the cartridge having a port that is removably coupleable toan interface of the housing, the cathode being spaced from the anode ofthe electrolytic cell when coupled to the interface of the housing. 31.An apparatus according to claim 30, wherein the cartridge includes: amembrane is spaced between the cathode of the cartridge and the anode ofthe electrolytic cell when the cartridge is coupled to the interface ofthe housing.
 32. An apparatus according to claim 31, wherein themembrane is a solid proton exchange membrane that provides for theexchange of protons between the cathode and the anode.
 33. An apparatusaccording to claim 30, wherein the reservoir includes a hydrophobicmembrane that contains the catholyte solution in the reservoir whileproviding for the passage of hydrogen gas from the reservoir.
 34. Anapparatus according to claim 30, wherein the catholyte solution iscontained within the reservoir and is in a solid form.
 35. An apparatusaccording to claim 34, wherein the catholyte solution is in a pre-mixedpowdered form.
 36. An apparatus according to claim 30, wherein thehousing includes an anode inlet port and an anode outlet port such thatsource water flows through the anode inlet port to contact the anode andthen flows through the anode outlet port.
 37. An apparatus according toclaim 36, wherein the anode generates ozone from the source water incontact with the anode and dissolves the ozone in the source water. 38.An apparatus according to claim 36, wherein the housing includes: atleast one valve to prevent the escape of source water when the cartridgeis decoupled from the interface on the housing.
 39. An apparatusaccording to claim 30, further comprising: an indicator for indicatingwhen the cartridge needs to be replaced.